We’ve all heard about the connection between the mind and the body. We also know that our mind can have an important influence over our body. It’s difficult for the mind to focus well on two things at once. Our minds are like a radio. While a radio can get many stations, only one station at a time comes in well. This is true for the mind that has many thoughts but can really only focus well on one thought at a time.
Distraction is good to use when we have short activities that cause trouble such as pain and discomfort or anxiety. Because the mind doesn’t focus well on two things at the same time, we force our mind to think of something other than the symptom.
Some examples of short-term distraction techniques are:
- Counting backward by threes
- Playing a game of in your head
- Thinking of a flower or bird for each letter of the alphabet
- Making plans for a future event
- Trying to think of the words of an old song
All of these are done only in your head. The “thinking” type of distraction, is a strategy that uses only the mind for short periods of time. Physical activities can also be used as a distraction technique but are used as a diversion for longer periods. However, you may need to interrupt a long, distracting activity to prevent over exertion and cause more pain or fatigue later.
DO NOT USE DISTRACTION OR IGNORE A SYMPTOM WHEN YOU ARE EXPERIENCING CHEST PAIN OR SUDDEN NUMBNESS OR WEAKNESS ON ONE SIDE OF THE BODY.
